Lakers Lock in Luka Dončić as Franchise Cornerstone

The Los Angeles Lakers made their future clear with Luka Dončić signing a three-year, $165 million max extension. The deal includes a 2028 player option, positioning him for a historic supermax the following summer.

At his press conference under the Lakers’ banners, Dončić said: “Being a Laker is an honor… I want to be up there too one day.” On social media, he promised to bring championships to LA while announcing a $5 million donation to support young athletes worldwide.

GM Rob Pelinka called him “the cornerstone,” and the Lakers’ recent moves prove it—adding Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart, and re-signing LeBron James on a short deal. At 41, LeBron now plays more as a bridge than centerpiece.

With Luka’s 31-pound transformation and renewed commitment, the Lakers are built to compete now while securing their next decade. The future of Laker Nation clearly belongs to Dončić.